Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources. A common concern among recipients is, “Will I lose SSI if I get married?” The short answer is yes, marriage can affect your SSI benefits, primarily because it may change your income and resource limits.
This blog explores how marriage affects SSI benefits, delves into alternatives like domestic partnerships and civil unions, highlights the importance of reporting changes to the SSA, and offers guidance on legal and financial planning for couples in this situation.
SSI benefits are designed to help those with little or no income and limited resources. To be eligible, individuals must demonstrate financial need, among other requirements. As of 2023, the SSI program serves over 2.4 million recipients aged 65 and over, which represents a significant portion of the total number of beneficiaries​​.
“The Social Security Administration may consider the income and resources of a cohabitating partner when determining SSI benefits.”
When you marry, the income and resources of your spouse are considered when determining your eligibility for SSI. This process, known as "deeming," may lead to a reduction in benefits. For instance, in 2023, the income limit for an individual is set at $1,913 per month, while for a couple, it's $2,827 per month​​. The resource limit for an individual is $2,000, and for a couple, it's $3,000​​. Therefore, getting married could result in a lower SSI payment because the combined resources and income of the couple are likely to be higher than those of an individual.
The SSA deems a portion of your spouse's income to you, which means it's counted as your income when determining your SSI eligibility and benefit amount. The exact impact depends on your combined income and resources. For example, the income limits for couples are higher than for individuals, but still, if the combined income exceeds these limits, it could reduce or eliminate SSI benefits​​​​.[1]
SSDI And SSI Benefits: If you receive both SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) and SSI benefits, your SSDI benefits remain unchanged upon marriage, but your SSI benefits could be affected if your combined spousal income exceeds SSI thresholds​​.
Medicare And Medicaid: Marriage can also impact your eligibility for Medicare and Medicaid, particularly if you receive these benefits due to your SSI status. It's important to assess how marriage might change your eligibility for these healthcare benefits​​.
Domestic Partnerships and Civil Unions: While domestic partnerships and civil unions offer some legal recognitions similar to marriage, their recognition and the benefits conferred can vary significantly by jurisdiction. For instance, some same-sex couples in non-marital legal relationships, such as civil unions and domestic partnerships, may qualify for benefits as a spouse or surviving spouse under certain conditions, though these benefits can be limited compared to marriage​​.[2] Federal agencies and tax regulations have specific rules regarding these relationships. For example, registered domestic partners cannot file federal tax returns using a married filing status, reflecting the federal government's distinct treatment of these unions compared to marriage​​
Implications of Cohabitation: Unmarried couples living together have the freedom to create estate planning documents to secure each other's rights, though they don't automatically receive many legal benefits conferred to married couples, such as property rights upon separation or survivor benefits. However, agreements can be crafted to protect property rights and ensure legal parentage of children, which can then be enforced by courts, offering some level of security and recognition​​.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires individuals to report changes in marital status or living arrangements. This is crucial for SSI recipients since such changes can affect eligibility and benefit amounts. Failure to report these changes can lead to overpayments, where recipients might have to repay benefits they were not eligible to receive. The SSA takes these requirements seriously, and compliance is essential to maintain your benefits.
“Unmarried couples looking to adopt may face more scrutiny and challenges from adoption agencies compared to married couples.“
Navigating the Decision to Marry: Considering SSI benefits, couples should carefully evaluate the financial implications of marriage. This includes understanding how combined incomes and resources might affect SSI eligibility and benefit amounts. Planning with a long-term perspective is crucial, especially for ensuring financial stability and access to needed benefits.
The Role of Legal Advice: Consulting with a legal professional who specializes in Social Security law can provide invaluable insights and guidance. A lawyer can help navigate the complexities of SSI benefits, marriage, domestic partnerships, or cohabitation. They can assist in drafting agreements to protect assets and rights, ensuring that both partners have a clear understanding of their financial and legal standing within the relationship.
For individuals considering alternatives to marriage, such as domestic partnerships or cohabitation, it's essential to understand the specific legal implications and how they differ from marriage. Crafting comprehensive agreements and estate plans can help protect both partners' interests, ensuring that the relationship's legal and financial aspects are securely managed.
Understanding “Will I lose SSI if I get married?” is essential for recipients contemplating this significant life change. Marriage can lead to adjustments in your SSI benefits due to combined household income and resources. Exploring alternatives like domestic partnerships or civil unions, understanding the SSA's reporting requirements, and engaging in thorough legal and financial planning are critical steps. Always seek personalized advice from legal professionals or the SSA to navigate this complex landscape effectively, ensuring you make informed decisions that align with your financial security and personal happiness.
Our detailed guide explains SSI and living arrangements. Learn more by visiting Benefits Aid and exploring our comprehensive resources.